Jet-Set to the Beat: 10 Jazz Festivals That Deserve a Spot on Your Travel Wishlist
Recognising its power, UNESCO declared 30th April World Jazz Day back in 2011 — a celebration not just of toe-tapping rhythms but of freedom of expression, creativity, and cultural connection. Not a bad way to honour a genre that was built on boldness and improvisation, right?
Now, you could stay home and stick on your favourite Miles Davis playlist… but if you’re like me — always on the lookout for inspiring ways to travel — then why not experience it live? All over the world, from French villages to Caribbean coastlines, jazz festivals are bringing people together through sound, soul and scenery.
Here’s how to make your next getaway sing — one glorious jazz note at a time.
Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival, Caribbean 30 April – 11 May 2025 Island-wide, Saint Lucia
Jazz meets paradise on this sun-drenched Caribbean island. Expect soulful performances set against lush tropical backdrops, with a lineup that blends jazz, reggae, soca, gospel and R&B. There’s also an entire arts and culture programme, so when you're not swaying to the saxophone, you’ll be wandering open-air galleries, poetry slams, and fashion showcases.
Where to stay: Jade Mountain – a dramatic, adults-only eco-resort with open-air sanctuaries and panoramic views over the Pitons. It’s every bit as bold and beautiful as jazz itself.
Jazz à Vienne, France 26 June – 12 July 2025 Vienne, France
An ancient Roman amphitheatre sets the scene for this timeless festival in southeastern France. With over 250 concerts across 20 venues, it’s a dream for true jazz lovers. By day, explore the Rhône Valley or wander the local markets. By night, it’s all about candlelit saxophone solos and world-class performances under the stars.
Where to stay: La Pyramide – Patrick Henriroux – a boutique Relais & Châteaux hotel just minutes from the festival action, known for its Michelin-starred dining and refined French charm.
Montreux Jazz Festival, Switzerland 4 – 19 July 2025 Montreux, Lake Geneva
If you like your jazz with a side of snow-capped Alps and lakeside serenity, Montreux is the one. What started as a small gathering in 1967 is now one of the most iconic festivals in Europe. It’s known for its eclectic lineups (everyone from Aretha Franklin to Radiohead has played here), and the lakeside promenade transforms into a buzzing hub of food stalls, bars, and open-air stages.
Where to stay: Fairmont Le Montreux Palace – a grand Belle Époque hotel with lake views, spa indulgence, and the kind of piano bar energy that feels straight out of a 1930s jazz club.
Java Jazz Festival, Jakarta, Indonesia 28 February – 2 March 2025 Jakarta, Indonesia
One of Asia’s biggest and boldest jazz festivals, Java Jazz is a high-energy celebration of global sounds. It brings together international icons and Indonesian talent in a three-day fusion of soul, funk, R&B and jazz. Think Stevie Wonder, H.E.R., and local legends like Indra Lesmana all on the same bill — it's pure musical magic.
Where to stay: Mandarin Oriental, Jakarta – stylish, central, and a bit of a sanctuary in the city. A great base for soaking up the energy of the festival before heading off to chill in Bali if you’re making it a multi-stop adventure.
Newport Jazz Festival, USA 1 – 3 August 2025 Fort Adams State Park, Rhode Island
The birthplace of the modern jazz festival, Newport is where legends like Miles Davis and Duke Ellington made history. Held in a breezy coastal fort overlooking the sea, the vibe here is relaxed, retro and unapologetically American. Bring a picnic blanket, soak up the views, and get ready for a weekend of serious musical magic.
Where to stay: The Chanler at Cliff Walk – a historic mansion turned boutique hotel with fireplaces in every room and ocean views to match the grandeur of the music.
Oslo Jazz Festival, Norway 11 – 17 August 2025 Oslo, Norway
Think midnight sun and cool Nordic charm with a whole lot of swing. Oslo’s jazz scene is bold, experimental, and incredibly fun. Performances are dotted throughout intimate venues across the city, from elegant concert halls to cosy bars. It’s a great pick if you want to pair your music with fjords, modern architecture and a bit of Scandi chic.
Where to stay: Amerikalinjen – once the headquarters of a transatlantic cruise line, now a stylish design hotel with live music spaces, perfect for jazz lovers.
Melbourne International Jazz Festival, Australia 17 – 26 October 2025 Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne’s jazz scene is effortlessly cool — just like the city itself. The festival runs across rooftops, laneways, concert halls and unexpected venues, blending big-name acts with bold new sounds. Past lineups have featured the likes of Chaka Khan and Snarky Puppy. Expect great coffee, great bars, and a scene that doesn't take itself too seriously — just seriously good music.
Where to stay: Ovolo Laneways – funky, centrally located and full of personality — just like the city. Bonus points for the free minibar and happy vibes. The Jazz Corner Hotel – for those who like their hotels with as much soul as their playlists, and a leafy park just outside the window.
Cape Town International Jazz Festival, South Africa TBC 2025 (usually March/April) Cape Town, South Africa
Often dubbed “Africa’s Grandest Gathering,” this is the biggest jazz event on the continent. The energy is electric, the line-up is proudly global and local, and the setting — at the foot of Table Mountain — is unbeatable. It's as much about community and creativity as it is about the music.
Where to stay: The Silo Hotel – housed in a former grain elevator above the Zeitz MOCAA art museum, it’s a dazzling mix of industrial heritage and bold South African design.
Jazz Isn’t Just a Genre – It’s a Journey From candlelit amphitheatres in France to sun-soaked Caribbean shores and dramatic Alpine backdrops, there’s a jazz festival for every kind of traveller. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado or just looking to spice up your next getaway with something unexpected, these events are an unforgettable way to explore the world — and let the rhythm lead.
Need help turning one of these soulful escapes into a reality? That’s what I’m here for. Let’s hit the right note together.
